Unspoken Grace

Unspoken Graces

At the end of an emotional day, it's a relief to come home to a place where everyone understands. For the Krivac family, having the Ronald McDonald House to come home to gave them an amazing support system as they faced their daughter's illness.

Shawna and David Krivac stayed at the House while 7 year-old daughter Laura was fighting through chemo and radiation at Duke Hospital. Laura was diagnosed with a rare tumor and the family was hoping to shrink its size in order for surgery.

"When you're in that situation, you don't have to explain to each other at the House," said Shawna. "There's a mutual understanding you just don't have with anyone else. I know the House staff, volunteers and other families are there for me. Since we've come home, I honestly miss the House, because it's difficult being away from the people who completely understand."

While staying at the House, the family was able to enjoy simple things that made life a bit more joyful. Being surrounded by family including mom and dad, along with 17 year-old brother Matthew and grandmother Virginia, also contributed to a positive healing atmosphere for Laura. The Krivac family loved playing games, making friends, enjoying mealtimes and sharing their experiences with other families. The family even enjoyed a Durham Bulls baseball game, where Laura was an honored guest.

The Krivac family's days at the House included many encouraging moments that helped them through the tough times.

"There were a lot of special moments at the House," said Shawna. "There were so many times I couldn't sleep at night. I always knew there would be someone else who was awake too. At the House, someone is always awake and there for you."

Laura is now doing well and comes back to Duke Hospital periodically for check-ups. The Krivacs treasured the friendships of all the staff, volunteers and other families at the House. Laura even made many special friends that she has stayed in touch with today. The spoken and unspoken graces of their experiences at the House helped them overcome a very difficult time and help others along the way.